Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #79/100
Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
California Towhee – Melozone crissalis
Name Roots: Gr. mēlon cheek; zōnē girdle, belt; – L. crissalis crissal, of the vent
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Large, stocky, long-tailed sparrow. Uniform matte brown, with rich cinnamon tones on face and orange undertail coverts. Also note very limited streaking on upper breast with no central spot. Occurs in chaparral and other tangled shrubby, dry habitats.
DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY
The California Towhee is a Common Yearround Resident in California’s Central Valley and can be found in shruby natural habitats.
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